The Rippingtons Discography: A Journey Through Smooth Jazz
If you are a fan of smooth jazz, jazz fusion, jazz pop, or crossover jazz, you have probably heard of The Rippingtons, an American contemporary jazz group that has been active since 1985. Led by guitarist and band leader Russ Freeman, The Rippingtons have released more than 20 albums and have inspired many other bands in the genre. In this article, we will take a look at their discography from 1987 to 2011, highlighting some of their most popular and influential songs.
Moonlighting (1987)
The Rippingtons' recording career began with their debut album Moonlighting, which was well received by critics and consumers. The album featured the song "She Likes to Watch", which has become a staple of the band's live set and one of their signature tunes. The album also included guest appearances by saxophonist Kenny G and pianist David Benoit. Moonlighting established The Rippingtons as one of the leading acts in smooth jazz.
The Rippingtons Discography (1987 2011).11
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Kilimanjaro (1988)
The Rippingtons' second album Kilimanjaro was released in 1988 and continued their success. The album showcased Freeman's guitar skills and his ability to blend different musical influences, such as African rhythms, Latin grooves, and pop melodies. The album also featured saxophonist Brandon Fields, bassist Steve Bailey, and keyboardist Mark Portmann as new members of the band. Kilimanjaro was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance.
Tourist in Paradise (1989)
In 1989, The Rippingtons released their third album Tourist in Paradise, which was inspired by Freeman's travels around the world. The album had a more exotic and adventurous sound than their previous albums, incorporating elements of world music, reggae, calypso, and samba. The album also introduced saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa as a new member of the band. Tourist in Paradise was another hit for The Rippingtons, reaching #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.
Welcome to the St. James' Club (1990)
The Rippingtons' fourth album Welcome to the St. James' Club was released in 1990 and became their first CD to debut at #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. The album was named after a fictional club that Freeman imagined as a place where his fans could enjoy his music. The album had a more sophisticated and elegant sound than their previous albums, featuring smooth saxophone solos, lush keyboard arrangements, and catchy guitar riffs. The album also marked the debut of bassist Kim Stone as a new member of the band.
Curves Ahead (1991)
In 1991, The Rippingtons released their fifth album Curves Ahead, which was another commercial and critical success. The album had a more upbeat and energetic sound than their previous albums, featuring funky bass lines, fast-paced drum beats, and lively horn sections. The album also included guest appearances by saxophonists Kirk Whalum and Nelson Rangell. Curves Ahead was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Performance.
Weekend in Monaco (1992)
The Rippingtons' sixth album Weekend in Monaco was released in 1992 and was inspired by Freeman's visit to the glamorous city-state on the French Riviera. The album had a more romantic and cinematic sound than their previous albums, featuring orchestral strings, acoustic guitars, and piano ballads. The album also featured drummer Tony Morales and percussionist Steve Reid as new members of the band. Weekend in Monaco was another #1 hit on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.
Live in L.A. (1993)
In 1993, The Rippingtons released their first live album Live in L.A., which captured their performance at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The album featured some of their most popular songs from their previous albums, such as "She Likes to Watch", "Tourist in Paradise", "Welcome to the St. James
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